An RCMP investigator revealed during a coroner’s inquest that authorities suspect a mother found deceased with her husband and two young boys in Prince Rupert, B.C., was complicit in what is believed to be a murder-suicide. RCMP Corp. Matthew Blumberg testified about the emotional impact of the scene’s discovery on June 13, 2023, highlighting details such as the children having teddy bears at their feet and a video will created by the parents on their phones.
Blumberg indicated that evidence suggested the mother, Janet Nguyen, was killed by her husband, Christopher Duong, without signs of a struggle. The fate of the children remained unclear. The “last will and testament” video contained instructions on guardianship and property wishes. Analysis of Duong’s phone revealed searches related to painless suicide methods, dropping off children at fire stations, and flight information.
The video will was recorded on the same day Duong was briefly detained under the Mental Health Act and subsequently released from a hospital. The family’s tragic end occurred three days later. Police had prior interactions with Duong and Nguyen, with Duong known for alleged drug ties and weapon offenses, exacerbated by a previous brain injury from a car accident.
In the days leading to the incident, Duong feared for his safety, believing a threat was imminent. His actions, including avoiding detection while driving with his family, led to his Mental Health Act apprehension. Despite appearing calm during a hospital assessment, concerns about his mental state arose from family accounts of escalating paranoia.
The RCMP’s investigation concluded that the deaths were isolated to the family unit, with no external involvement suspected. The inquest aims to establish facts, offer preventive recommendations, and maintain public trust. Support resources are available for those in distress, emphasizing the importance of recognizing warning signs and initiating conversations about mental health.
